Intelligent modular aerospace system

Abstract

An Intelligent Modular Aerospace System (IMAS) is a paradigm shift in the architecture, utility, efficiency, operation, test/checkout, qualification testing and adaptability of an aerospace application system that provides Time/Space/Position Information, Data Acquisition/Processing/Relay, Power Generation/Distribution, avionic solutions, navigation, and command/data handling. IMAS ( 10 ) as shown in FIG. 1 is comprised of open architecture stackable modules ( 12 ) which are interchangeable and connectable in any order, internally interconnected in a plug and play fashion with an internal raceway ( 14 ) containing an input access ( 16 ) and output access ( 18 ). The resultant IMAS is capable of ingesting any type of external power or data source such as GPS, IMU, communications, command functions and databases such as targeting information. IMAS output includes capabilities such navigation/control logic, avionics steering commands, autonomous flight and flight termination system commands, satellite inter-communications and power from within the modules.

1 . An integrated and consolidated modular aerospace system capable of providing time/space/position information, command and data handling, data acquisition/processing/relay, avionics solutions, navigation, power generation/distribution, said aerospace application system being self-contained in a consolidated and integrated single unit. 
     
     
         2 . An aerospace system of  claim 1  wherein said aerospace system is completely scalable, is modular in construction, has total open architecture, is completely flexible in reconfigurability and stackability along with being adaptable and allowing interchangeability with all components contained therein. 
     
     
         3 . An aerospace system of  claim 2  wherein said modules interconnect via an internal raceway means containing all power, communications and data required for functioning of said modules, said internal raceway means and said modules being infinitely expandable in the stacked configuration. 
     
     
         4 . An aerospace system of  claim 3  wherein a data processing means, communication means, an RF means and a power means are combined in one consolidated modular, stackable and reconfigurable system capable of passing rigorous aerospace environmental qualification testing including thermal cycle and vacuum, random and sine vibration, shock, and electro magnetic and radio frequency interference. 
     
     
         5 . An aerospace system of  claim 4  wherein said modules form a completely consolidated integrated structure with no external containment necessary. 
     
     
         6 . An aerospace system of  claim 5  wherein all vital internal functions of said aerospace system are monitorable externally via a data interface means. 
     
     
         7 . An aerospace system of  claim 6  wherein said aerospace system externally outputs all mission data via a data interface means. 
     
     
         8 . An aerospace system of  claim 7  wherein said aerospace system accepts data inputs from external sources via a data interface means. 
     
     
         9 . An aerospace system of  claim 8  wherein a design for manufacturability and a design for test provides unprecedented single integrated box efficiencies resulting in rapid construction, environmental qualification and test capability.